KUALA LUMPUR, July 26 — Malaysia will host the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix at the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) from October 2 to 4, marking the first time in F1 history that a race has been relocated to another country after being cancelled.
F1 in a statement today said the event, subject to final agreements and official sign-off, including approval by the World Motor Sport Council, will be held under its original title, the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix, in Malaysia.
F1 said the agreement between Formula One, the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA), and Malaysian and Bahraini governments would allow the race to proceed after it was cancelled earlier this season due to geopolitical tensions in West Asia.
“Information regarding ticket sales for the event will be announced soon,” read the statement.
F1 president and chief executive officer Stefano Domenicali said the move demonstrates the sport’s adaptability while ensuring fans enjoy a full championship calendar.
“Most importantly, this is fantastic news for our fans. They will continue to enjoy a full and exciting Formula 1 calendar, while also seeing the sport return to a great venue,” he said.
Domenicali said Sepang is a special venue in F1 history that would provide a spectacular setting for racing and an unforgettable experience for spectators at the circuit and viewers around the world.
He also thanked His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, and His Majesty King Hamad Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain, along with their respective governments, for making the extraordinary arrangement possible.
Meanwhile, FIA president Mohammed ben Sulayem said the FIA, Formula One Management and their partners in Bahrain had explored every possible option, with the safety and well-being of teams, volunteers, officials and fans remaining the highest priority.
“Malaysia has long held an important place in the history of F1 and the return of the championship to Sepang is testament to our close relationship with the Motorsports Association of Malaysia, the continued commitment of the Malaysian government, and the strength of international cooperation within our sport,” he said.
The Bahrain Grand Prix was originally to be held at the Bahrain International Circuit on the same dates. Malaysia and Turkiye subsequently emerged as leading contenders to host the race.
SIC hosted the Malaysian Grand Prix from 1999 to 2017 before the race was dropped from the F1 calendar due to rising organisation costs and sanctioning fees.
